# Alprazolam (Xanax)

Source: https://ourhealthnetwork.com/drugs/alprazolam
Data: FDA Orange Book and OpenFDA, refreshed periodically

## What is Alprazolam?

Alprazolam (brand name: Xanax) is a benzodiazepine. It is prescribed to treat agoraphobia, panic disorder, depressive disorder. Across the United States, 164,000 doctors prescribe Alprazolam to approximately 2.1 million Medicare patients, making it one of the 50 most prescribed drugs in America.

## Brand names

Xanax

## Indications

Alprazolam is prescribed for the treatment of agoraphobia, panic disorder and depressive disorder.

## Conditions treated

- [Agoraphobia](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/agoraphobia)
- [Panic Disorder](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/panic-disorder)
- [Depressive Disorder](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/depressive-disorder)

## Mechanism of action

decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain

## Drug classification

- Established Pharmacologic Class: Benzodiazepine

## Common side effects

drowsiness, light-headedness, depression, headache, confusion, dry mouth

## Sources and disclaimers

- FDA Orange Book and OpenFDA dataset
- This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

## Related

- [All drugs](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/drugs)
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- [Methodology](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/methodology)